Eventing legend Andrew Hoy Australian Flag Bearer at FEI World Equestrian Games Opening Ceremony

Eventing legend Andrew Hoy has been given the honour of carrying the Australian flag at the opening ceremony at the FEI World Equestrian Games in Tryon, North Carolina.

“It is a really big honour. The first time I rode World Championships was 40 years ago in Lexington, Kentucky so it’s very special. There’s many other great athletes in the Australian team who could be flag-bearers so this really is a special moment” said Hoy.

He is the most decorated member of the Australian Equestrian Team and Tryon marks the fourth FEI World Equestrian Games he has participated in during his illustrious riding career.

At the 2012 London Olympic Games Hoy become the first Australian to compete in seven Olympic Games. In 2015 he was inducted into the Equestrian Australia Hall of Fame for his contribution to the success of the 1992 Barcelona Olympics Eventing Team. The team clinched a gold medal after overcoming a series of setbacks including injury and illness, which resulted in them competing with only three members.

The honor of carrying the Australian flag will be made even more special for Hoy as his family is able to be in Tryon to support him, including 13-month-old daughter Philippa. For the first time in her life Philippa will cheer her father on from the sidelines at the FEI World Equestrian Games.

“It is very special to have my family here. Steffi is just a wonderful support to me and my daughter Philippa at 13 months, it is something very special that helps to take away any anxiety that you have regarding competition, as you see her doing something and it just makes you smile” said Hoy.

The FEI World Equestrian Games Opening ceremony takes place on Tuesday 11^th September.